Flight Details
A pilot received a weather briefing indicating that instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) were forecast along the intended route. He filed a visual flight rules (VFR) flight plan and departed from Polson, Montana, at 0830, destined for Powell, Wyoming. The pilot was aware of the IMC forecast but proceeded under VFR.
Weather Encounter
The pilot reported encountering low ceilings, poor visibility, and drizzle shortly after passing Helena, Montana. He continued the flight despite these adverse conditions.
Accident
According to the pilot, when he determined that he could not proceed further, he reduced the aircraft's speed and initiated a left turn. The aircraft then struck trees and crashed into the ground. The accident occurred at about 1010.